THE NATURE OF OUR WORK

The Nature of our Work

Jennifer Woodley

‘Whatever your task, put yourselves into it, as done for the Lord and not for your masters.’ Colossians 3:23 (NRSV)

It is important to us that our work has meaning and makes a valuable contribution. 

But what determines whether our work has significance and really matters? 

Does the type of work we do determine its importance? 

Our society would say that being a banker is more important than being a bin man, a policeman more important than a postal worker. 

Does the wage we receive indicate our work's real value? 

A mother may receive no wage for her tireless work. Is her labor less important than another who is paid a handsome salary?

What does God say? 

That our work’s worth is only found in the way we work and who we work for. In God’s eyes, all work is equal, yet we elevate some work and the financial reward we receive for it, higher than the others. 

Often, we place too much emphasis on what really matters little to God.

If we view our work as an offering to God with the intention of honoring Him by giving our very best, then it doesn’t matter what we do or how much we earn, it is worthwhile and has great significance. 

What matters is how we do our work and who we are doing it for. Whatever vocation we are called to, let's be content in it. Let’s serve not our earthly master, but our Heavenly Father who calls us to apply ourselves to each task with a heart that is committed, faithful and ready to give our very best. 

Jennifer lives with her family near Toowoomba, Queensland and enjoys encouraging others on their faith journey through writing and mentoring. Contact